Engine Color Kit, Clear, for Aircooled VW

Take Your Engine Bay to the Next Level with the EMPI Clear Engine Color Kit

When it comes to making a statement at the local car show or simply enjoying a pristine view every time you pop the decklid, nothing beats the transparent aesthetic of the EMPI Engine Color Kit in Clear. This kit is a staple for the classic Cal-Look or any custom air-cooled build where "clean" is the primary objective. By replacing your standard, opaque ignition components with high-quality transparent alternatives, you aren''t just adding a part; you are revealing the mechanical soul of your Volkswagen. The clear distributor cap allows you to see the rotor in motion, providing a visceral connection to the internal combustion process that most enthusiasts never get to experience. It is the ultimate "naked" look for the VW engine, stripping away the clutter and replacing it with a sleek, unified appearance that highlights the precision of your machine.

Beyond the undeniable visual appeal, this kit is engineered by EMPI, a name synonymous with air-cooled performance for decades. This isn''t just a "show" part that compromises on "go." The included copper core plug wires are designed to deliver a consistent, high-voltage spark to your spark plugs, ensuring that your 1600cc dual-port or vintage 1200cc engine runs as smoothly as it looks. The finned pulley cover and backing plate aren''t just there for the shine; they help provide a finished look to the crank area, protecting against light debris while maintaining that iconic finned cooling motif found throughout the VW engine architecture. If you are tired of the "black hole" of a standard engine bay, this clear kit provides the brightness and modern flair needed to set your Beetle, Bus, or Ghia apart from the crowd.

Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility

This kit is designed for the standard upright Air-Cooled Type 1 based engine. While it is a universal fit for many configurations, it is most commonly installed on the following models:

• Volkswagen Type 1: 1946-1977 Standard Beetle and 1971-1979 Super Beetle.
• Volkswagen Type 2: 1950-1971 Bus / Transporter / Kombi (with upright engine configurations).
• Volkswagen Type 14: 1955-1974 Karmann Ghia.
• Volkswagen Type 181: 1973-1974 Thing.
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Trikes, and Kit Cars using VW 1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc based engines.

Technical Specifications and Kit Components

This comprehensive dress-up kit includes everything you need to transform the upper and lower face of your air-cooled engine. Every component is manufactured to meet or exceed original equipment standards for fitment.

• Distributor Cap: High-dielectric transparent plastic construction with brass terminals for maximum conductivity and corrosion resistance.
• Spark Plug Wires: 7mm copper core wire set featuring transparent insulation to match the kit theme.
• Ignition Terminals: High-tension boots designed to seal against moisture and prevent voltage leakage.
• Pulley Cover: Transparent, finned design that fits over the standard crankshaft pulley.
• Backing Plate: Matching transparent finned backing plate for a complete, layered look behind the pulley.
• Part Number: EMPI 00-8746-0.
• Material: Specialized heat-resistant polymers designed to withstand the high temperatures of an air-cooled engine bay.

Master Specialist Pro Tips for Installation

1. Protect the Clarity During Maintenance

The clear plastic components in this kit look incredible when they are brand new, but they can be sensitive to harsh degreasers and certain brake cleaners. When you are cleaning your engine bay, avoid spraying aggressive solvent-based cleaners directly onto the distributor cap or the pulley cover. These chemicals can "fog" or craze the plastic over time, ruining the transparent effect. Instead, use a mild soap and water solution or a plastic-safe detailer and a microfiber towel to keep the components crystal clear. Keeping them free of oil film will ensure that the "clear" look stays sharp for years to come.

2. Master the Firing Order Sequence

Whenever you are replacing a distributor cap and wire set, the most common mistake is losing track of the firing order. For the Volkswagen air-cooled engine, the firing order is 1-4-3-2. Before you remove your old wires, mark them or replace them one by one. Start by finding the Number 1 cylinder (front right of the engine) and match it to the notch on the distributor housing. Since this cap is clear, it is actually easier to see where the rotor is pointing, which helps you verify that you are at Top Dead Center (TDC) on the correct cylinder during installation. Ensure each wire "clicks" firmly onto the cap and the spark plug to prevent arcing.

3. Ensure Proper Pulley Clearance

When installing the finned pulley cover and backing plate, always rotate the engine by hand (using a 19mm wrench on the generator/alternator nut) for several full revolutions before starting the car. You want to ensure that the clear backing plate and cover aren''t rubbing against the fan shroud or the pulley itself. If you have an aftermarket "degree" pulley or an oversized serpentine belt system, double-check that the depth of the clear cover doesn''t interfere with the belt alignment. A small amount of trimming on the plastic plate may be necessary for some custom high-performance shrouds, but for a stock Bosch-style setup, it should be a direct bolt-on affair.